The Most Awkward Athlete Product Endorsements
This is what happens when you cross a laxative, perfume and a rental car company.
PHOTO: AdWeek
(Podcast length - 4:45 mins)
We realize you have to pay the bills somehow, but these five athlete partnerships make us a little confused.
Transcript
Photo: Ad Savvy
David Beckham for Young Fish Sticks
Nothing makes you want to fire up dinner faster than David Beckham's face on the side of a box of fish sticks. Beckham, who modeled Calvin Klein skivvies on billboards and Adidas endorsed Young Fish Sticks in 2010, complete with his picture on the side of the box. IN THE FREEZER SECTION
Photo: YouTube
Wilt Chamberlain for Fletcher's Castoria for Children
Wilt the Stilt's endorsement of a children's laxative was undoubtedly more uncomfortable than a stopped-up system. What's better? His mom was in the commercials too. In the commercial, she talked about how when her son was feeling sluggish, Fletcher's made him feel like himself again. MAMA KNOWS BEST
Photo: Flicker
OJ Simpson for Hertz Rental Car
Oh, the irony. The man who was part of this century's most notable police chase was the spokesperson for a rental car company. Granted, the partnership was during Simpson's football career, and the high-speed chase was later but still. Simpson graciously offered to be the spokesperson again for the company in 2020 after they filed for bankruptcy. DON'T CALL US, WE'LL CALL YOU?
Photo: Amazon
Brett Favre and Wrangler Jeans
The partnership is one you're not likely to forget – cowboy meets NFL quarterback. And nothing says, let's play a game of football like a pair of jeans. The partnership became a little more awkward (and a target for "Saturday Night Live") after Favre got into trouble sending lewd photos to women. NOT IDEAL
Photo: Walmart
Khloe Kardashian and Lamar Odom for Unbreakable Bond Perfume
A public breakup is tough when you're a celebrity, but what about when you share a booming business like Unbreakable Bond unisex perfume? The perfume, which features images of the couple all over the packaging, wasn't exactly a best seller like Kylie's lip kits. However, there was a second perfume made just for the holidays – Unbreakable Joy. THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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What Sports And An Episode Of 'Real Housewives' Have In Common
Drama, fights and shady sh*t aren't only reserved for Bravo.
Photo: Instagram/Bravo (RHOOC season premiere is December 1).
(Podcast length - 6:05 mins)
They all have game, but some motives are more questionable than others.
Transcript
1. What do Lisa Vanderpump and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson have in common? They want you to think of them at happy hour. Both Vanderpump and Johnson were successful, she as a restaurateur and he as a WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) wrestler, but they have used their platform to launch incredibly successful careers. Vanderpump has gone from “Housewives,” to “Vanderpump Rules” to a new show, “Overserved.” She’s added author, owner of a pet accessory company to her list and of course, her restaurant PUMP is on the must-see in Los Angeles list. We all know Johnson wants you to buy his Teremana tequila, watch his movies and indulge in his line with Under Armor, Project Rock. WHAT CAN’T THEY DO?
2. Our next two are known for doing some shady sh*t. Enter in Jen Shah and baseball’s own Lenny Dykstra. We all know that Shah was indicted for her alleged role in a long-running telemarketing scheme. If convicted, she could go to jail for up to 50 years. Dykstra went from the top of the world as a World Series winner to prison. Long story short, post-baseball he claimed to have a 100% hit rate at picking winning stocks and convinced people to jump on board his bandwagon, including the money man himself - Jim Cramer. Eventually, Dykstra filed for bankruptcy and went to prison. DOWNWARD SPIRAL
3. The “Malice at the Palace” makes the infamous Teresa table flip look like child’s play. A 2004 tussle on the court led to a fan throwing a beer on Detroit Pistons’ Ron Artest (NBA – National Basketball Association). Instead of having security take care of it, Artest charged up into the stands and beat the crap out of said beer thrower. As you can imagine, the league didn’t think highly of this and Artest was suspended for the rest of the season (and the incident was about four weeks into the season). THERE’S NO “I” IN TEAM
4. You’d never thought we’d compare Ramona Singer and Heather Dubrow to an NBA star but the resident fashionistas and Russell Westbrook have a lot in common with their own clothing/accessory lines. Russell Westbrook is known for his sometimes over-the-top postgame looks. He launched Honor The Gift, featuring athleisure-driven clothing as well as high-end athletic wear called Westbrook XO for Barneys. Other proud owners of a fashion-related business are Serena Williams (Serena), Tony Hawk (Birdhouse and Hawk Clothing), Venus Williams (EleVen) and Cristiano Ronaldo (CR7). FASHION MEETS FITNESS
5. “The Scum Bunch” might be how fans feel about some of the men on the series, but they had nothing on the dastardly deeds of the 1986 New York Mets team. (“The Scum Bunch” was the nicest thing that was said about the team that we could put in print). There were tales of members of the team destroying airplanes by throwing cake and steaks (different flights), doing performance-enhancing drugs and massive lines of cocaine, drinking, chasing women, fighting and the list goes on. Somehow they still managed to get their butts on the field, play baseball and win a World Series. HEATHER DUBROW COULD TEACH THEM A THING OR TWO ABOUT CLASS
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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How To Survive The Awkward Holiday Moments
Easy ways to divert, deflect and dine in peace.
(Podcast length - 5:15 mins)
Steer clear from a flare-up at the Thanksgiving table by avoiding these conversation minefields and diverting to a safer (and dare we say sportier?) one.
Transcript
For any conversation involving politics
Plenty of political and Hollywood icons once ran the sidelines. Samuel L. Jackson, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Meryl Streep and four former U.S.A. Presidents (Eisenhower, Roosevelt, Reagan and George W. Bush) all had spirit. We'd be remiss if we didn't mention the marching band. In college, you would've found Halle Berry, Steven Spielberg, Alan Greenspan and Lionel Richie entertaining you in formation at halftime. Much safer than venturing into the political minefield at the dinner table.
Or, if you're feeling like taking a walk on the wild side, share a little something from our post about five athletes who turned their fame into a career in politics. Or there’s always COVID and the fact that the NFL is bringing back their mask mandate for all personnel, citing the Thanksgiving holiday. BREAK OUT THE HAND SANITIZER
When grandma asks you why you're not married…for the 10th time—that day.
Tell grandma that a long-lasting marriage isn't a sure bet, but you know what is? The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys (NFL - National Football League) taking the field on Thanksgiving. The Thanksgiving tradition started for the Lions in 1934 and 1966 for the Cowboys. So regardless of whether you're cheering for the winless Lions or the first-place Cowboys, one thing you can count on is these teams to play while you nap off your meal. EVERLASTING LOVE
Your dog-obsessed aunt joins you for Thanksgiving lunch and brings her dog that she feeds from the table.
For the dog who doesn't earn the title of best showing at the table, there's still hope to claim the title of "Best in Show." Thanksgiving also doubles as the date of the National Dog Show. And just like your uncle, who avoids anything with Cheez-Whiz, the judges have high standards too. They're not only looking for a dog with defined features, correct gait and fitness level but a happy dog that enjoys the competition, so each dog's expression and general demeanor receive extra scrutiny. WOOF
Your little sister keeps taking selfies, and all you can think about is how full you are.
Be thankful you don't have to pass a post-meal jiggle test. Some NFL team's cheer coaches conduct "jiggle tests" to assess the firmness of the cheerleaders' bodies during the season, and if they don't pass the test, they're benched. During a regular-season many make, on average less than $10/hour. With practices, appearances and games, they put in 30-40 hour weeks during the season, but most are required to have a full-time job elsewhere. Want more? Check out five things you never knew about NFL cheerleaders. DO YOU HAVE SPIRIT?
When your sibling throws a dinner roll at you (You know it's going to happen no matter how old you are).
Don't get caught up in the heat of the moment, unlike Kelly Stafford. Kelly Stafford and her QB husband, Matt, are new additions to the LA Rams roster this year. Matt and his team took a beating in last week's Monday Night Football game against the San Francisco 49ers. During the game, Kelly threw a pretzel at a taunting opposing fan. A neighboring Rams fan called her out on it, and she later apologized for her bad behavior on Instagram. FOOD FIGHT!
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Life Of An NBA Referee
It’s a thankless job, but someone has to do it.
(Podcast length - 3:52 mins)
If you like being the boss, following the rules and look good in black and white stripes, then maybe a career shift is in order?
Transcript
1. While you’re going to have to work your way up through the system, NBA (National Basketball Association) referees take home anywhere between $150,000-$550,000, depending on experience. NBA referees have the potential to make more than the highest-paid WNBA – Women’s National Basketball Association - player. (Highest annual salary in the WNBA is $221,450). Refs receive bonuses for officiating playoff games and the dollar amount depends on the importance of the game (i.e. you make more money working the finals). NAME YOUR PRICE
2. Remember Billy Crystal traveling the nation as an NBA referee in the movie Forget Paris? (Okay, maybe not). It wasn’t his best flick but like his character, referees travel for work 25 days a month for eight months. That equates to calling 65-70 games in an 82-game season, not including playoffs. HIT THE ROAD JACK
3. Imagine being called out by your boss every time you present in a meeting. That’s what happens to the referees in the NBA’s two minute reports. The public report critiques the referees’ calls within the last two minutes of the game and overtime. The refs also review tape after games to make sure they’re at the top of their game. AND YOU THOUGHT YOUR ANNUAL REVIEW WAS TOUGH
4. It's not all mental. They have to be physically fit too because they’re running up and down the court for the entire 48 minutes alongside the players. Referees work on their fitness regimen in the off-season as any athlete would and they train their brains by utilizing virtual reality. And unlike the players, referees have a vaccination mandate. GAMING THE GAME
5. Look out men, the women are taking the court, and technically, they're in charge. Danielle Scott, the daughter of a college basketball official, becomes the sixth full-time female referee this season. That's the most women the NBA has ever had on its officiating staff at one time. CLIMBING THE LADDER
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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The 5 Most Scenic College Stadiums To Catch A Fall Football Game
Fall foliage (oh, and football) for the win.
PHOTO: Instagram/UW_Football
(Podcast length - 5:20 mins)
Fall foliage and a little football, for the win.
Army
If you've never had a chance to attend a military academy sporting event, it's certainly something a sight to see. Now imagine watching all of that pageantry at Michie Stadium on the campus of West Point (Army) in New York that is nestled along a river amongst the trees. The setting is postcard perfect. STUNNING
Photo: Instagram/Penn State Football
Penn State
It's easy to get confused when we talk about Beaver Stadium that we're not talking about the home of Oregon State Beavers but the home of the Penn State Nittany Lions. The second-largest stadium in college football holds 100,000+ fans who take in the surroundings of fall colors. A white out is typically something reserved for the winter, but when all 100k+ fans wear white at a Penn State game, it is said to be "the best atmosphere in college football" and becomes a tough place for competitors to play. AT LEAST IT'S EASY ON THE EYES
Photo: Jeff Gross/Getty Images
UCLA
While they may not have the fall colors that the Northeast has, there's nothing like catching a game at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA. You won't miss the changing leaves (or the cold weather that goes along with it) when you're watching the sunset over the mountains that surround the stadium. The UCLA Bruins have the home-field advantage on sunset views. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
Photo: Instagram/UW_Football
University of Washington
Husky Stadium in Seattle, home to the University of Washington Huskies, is known for the tailgate tradition of boatgating on Lake Washington outside the stadium. But the venue's other top attributes are the views of Downtown Seattle, Mt. Rainier and the Cascade Mountains to the east and the Olympic Mountain Range to the west. The landscape is a welcome respite from the tension associated with a football game. VIEWS FOR DAYS
Photo: Instagram/BYU Football
BYU
LaVell Edwards Stadium at BYU in Provo, Utah, may have just started serving caffeinated soda in 2017, but the views have been around since the beginning. Make sure to check out the ice cream made on campus when you're perusing the concourse for snacks at a game. (In case you're wondering, the school's honor code states, students, administration, and staff will "abstain from alcoholic beverages, tobacco, tea, coffee and substance abuse.") CHEERS
Photo: TBCX
Honorable Mention - Arizona State University
Honorable mention goes to Sun Devil Stadium (Arizona State University). Nuzzled up against a mountain, the desert sky provides the perfect background for not too chilly fall football. Just don't make the mistake of going to a game in the summer.
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Five Reasons To Tune Into The World Series
Pearl necklaces, drinking for good and the circle of life.
PHOTO: Unsplash
(Podcast length - 4:20 mins)
The Fall Classic is upon us, and no, we don’t mean pumpkin spice lattes.
Transcript
1. They may be in it for the World Series ring, but for Joc Pederson, it's all about the pearls. The Atlanta Braves outfielder has been wearing a pearl necklace during the playoffs. Why? He hasn't given a straight answer, but his latest answer of "he's a bad b—" is good enough for us. YOU SO FANCY
2. The Houston Astros have home-field advantage, and that means they host four of the games in the best-of-seven series. More games means more alcohol sales. In Houston, sales at Minute Maid Field are on pace to be the most the park has seen in the last five years, with the taxes collected on alcohol alone hitting $1.9 million. The State of Texas, Harris County and the city of Houston thank you for contributing to the $12.8 million of beer, wine and liquor sold so far this season. DRINKING FOR GOOD
3. What were you doing in 1999 - a whopping 22 years ago? That was the last time the Atlanta Braves appeared in the World Series. On Tuesday, they will meet up with the Houston Astros in Game One of the World Series. The Fall Classic is back, and the Astros have a lot to prove. The last time the Astros won a World Series in 2017, they were caught cheating. The team kept their title, but they're trying to prove they don't need to cheat to win it all. THE MORE YOU KNOW
4. Manager (i.e., head coach) for the Houston Astros, Dusty Baker's baseball career has come full circle. He started in the major leagues with the Atlanta Braves at 19 years old. Now at 72, he will face his first team in the World Series in what could be his last season coaching. OH THE IRONY
5. It's a family affair for Braves manager Brian Snitker who will face his son Troy in the Fall Classic. Troy is the hitting coach for the Astros. Hopefully, the result won't equal an uncomfortable holiday season in the Snitker household. ALL IN THE FAMILY
Bonus: One thing to remember when watching the World Series is that the two leagues in baseball have different rules. In the American League (Astros), pitchers do not hit for themselves and instead, a designated hitter hits for the pitchers. At games in the National League ballpark (Braves), the pitcher will have to hit for himself, changing the strategy significantly. SWITCHING IT UP
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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The 5 Things You Need To Know About The 2021-2022 NBA Season
Forget the stats and rankings, here’s what you really want to know.
PHOTO: Giphy
(Podcast length - 5:39 mins)
It's the 75th anniversary of the NBA, and there's a chance the Milwaukee Bucks will repeat this season but honestly, the field is wide open. But we're not here to talk standings and odds. Let's talk about the more exciting side of the NBA Season.
Transcript
It's the 75th anniversary of the NBA, and there's a chance the Milwaukee Bucks will repeat this season but honestly, the field is wide open. But we're not here to talk standings and odds. Let's talk about the more exciting side of the NBA Season.
1. Fashion first, always. Leaguewide, teams will wear 123 different uniforms this season, with each team receiving four jersey editions: Association, Icon, City and Statement. Three OG NBA franchises – New York Knicks, Golden State Warriors (then Philadelphia) and Boston Celtics will wear a fifth Classic edition uniform. (The original shorty-shorts are not included). On those wide varieties of jerseys, you'll see the jersey sponsorships patches. The patches, which are now commonplace across the league, started in 2017 and have generated more than $150 million in operating revenue. WHO IS WEARING WHAT AND WHEN
2. Ever wonder where all of the money from the fines players and coaches goes? To charity. Half of the money goes to the NBA for distribution to its official charitable partners. The other half goes to the NBPA's (National Basketball Players Association) non-profit, the NBPA Foundation. Some years the donations to the NBPA Foundation have totaled between $2.5 - $3 million. The funds go to furthering the sport and assistance to individuals, communities and organizations, sometimes globally. BAD GUY GONE GOOD
3. Old guys rule, for now. Many of the familiar faces in the league, like LeBron James (36), Chris Paul (36) and Dwight Howard (35), are the oldest players in the league. Look for young players like Zion Williamson (New Orleans Pelicans) and Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons) to step into the spotlight this season. The Los Angeles Lakers, which James and Howard both play for, is the oldest team in the league with an average age of 30.4. The Oklahoma City Thunder are the youngest, with an average age of 23.4. EXPERIENCE > YOUTH
4. Look out men, the women are taking the court, and technically, they're in charge. Danielle Scott, the daughter of a college basketball official, becomes the sixth full-time female referee this season. That's the most women the NBA has ever had on staff at one time. PART OF THE NORM
5. You can't talk about the season and not speak about COVID. The NBA is the last major professional sports league to emerge from COVID protocols and resume a regularly scheduled season, but city-imposed mandates will impact the game. In New York City, San Francisco and Los Angeles, out-of-town teams are exempt from the vaccination mandates, but the home teams are not. You've likely heard about Kyrie Irving (Brooklyn Nets) and how he can't even practice with his team until he's vaccinated. Irving's story may be the loudest, but it’s not the norm as the league is 95% vaccinated. SHOTS IN ARMS, BUTTS IN SEATS
Bonus: Here are the nuts and bolts of the season. Thirty teams will play 82 games – 41 at home and 41 away. At the end of the season, the top six teams in each of the two conferences will claim a place in the playoffs. The seventh through 10th ranked seeds will compete in a play-in tournament for each conference's two remaining playoff spots. Yes, more than half of the league makes it to the playoffs. DOESN'T MEAN IT'S NOT EXCITING
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Episode 6: Women Ask All - Bachelorette Preview And Fall Foods
Laugh along with us as we pick our Bachelorette brackets and talk favorite fall foods.
(Podcast length 49 mins)
We're joined once again by Lincee, Kourtney, Lisa and our comic relief, Scott to talk about why plaid has a different meaning at Disney, favorite fall recipes and of course, a preview of Michelle Young's season as "The Bachelorette."
Show notes
Our guests
Lincee Ray: The brilliant and witty host behind the “I Hate Green Beans” podcast. (If you don’t listen already, go subscribe ASAP). Since we have Lincee on here and we’re all Bachelor franchise fans, we’re going to have to ask about the hot mess that is the Bachelorette this season. She can say the ABCs backward, really does hate green beans and is "a little too enthusiastic about Netflix, mixtapes and holiday-themed Oreos.”
Lisa Alberti: The Connecticut gal turned Los Angeles resident has a slight addiction to buying clutches and hats and is currently listening to Heather Dubrow’s World (podcast). All while dreaming of drinking champagne in Cabo, or really anywhere slightly exotic at this point. Thanks COVID.
Kourtney Brooks: The world needs more Kourtney Brooks. Kourtney has never met a martini she didn’t like and yet still manages to get more done in one day than most do in a week. This really fun and motivated gal created TINGE, a body beauty brand that launched their first product, the TINGE tint, in April.
Scott Buchan: The Last Night’s Game co-founder is the man who knows all. He’s online to conquer those hard-hitting sports questions that might come our way as well as provide comic relief. Don’t worry he takes notes and in this episode, we determine if his new status as an influencer. Next thing you know he’ll be staring in a rendition of “What Women Want” after all he’s learned on this podcast.
Amy Siegfried: Our hostess with the mostest and Last Night’s Game co-founder turned podcast host. She’s in charge of asking the questions you submit, keeping the panel on topic (her hardest job yet) and making sure everyone’s bios say something nice. (And yes in case you’re wondering, Scott is her brother hence the hilarious family references).
Links to things we talked about:
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
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Meet The Athletes Vying For 'Bachelorette' Michelle Young's Heart
We'll find out who’s a slam dunk when the season starts Oct. 19.
PHOTO: ABC
(Podcast length - 4:25 mins)
These athletes have played tough opponents in their sporting careers, but will they be a match for Clint Eastwood’s grandson when it comes to “Bachelorette” Michelle Young’s heart? Go ahead, make my day.
Transcript
Bryan Witzman
Michelle has said that her favorite restaurants are food trucks, so maybe that’s something she’ll have in common with former NFL (National Football League) player and self-described amateur chef Bryan Witzmann. Witzmann, who is 6’7” to Michelle’s 5’9,” played football in college and played for nine different NFL teams, most notably the Kansas City Chiefs. COOKING UP SOME LOVE
Joe Coleman
Will Joe Coleman be the Mr. to Michelle’s Mrs.? Both from Minneapolis, he was named Minnesota’s Mr. Basketball in high school, and she was a finalist for Minnesota’s Miss Basketball award. Rumor has it that the two may have known each other from playing college basketball. TWO WINNERS
Olumide Onajide
Former Rutgers basketball player Olumide Onajide could be just what Michelle is looking for, the “superman to her superwoman,” as her bio says. He works as a field systems analyst, model and writes a fitness column. A MAN OF MANY TALENTS
Alec Thompson
If she’s looking for a man with heart, Alec Thompson might be it. The Special Olympics volunteer is a civil engineer living in South Carolina. (Michelle is in Minnesota). Thompson might know a thing or two about structure and discipline that a former school teacher like Michelle would appreciate as he played football during his time at the Virginia Military Institute. TEN-HUT
Clayton Echard
Will orthopedic sales rep Clayton Echard be that “confident but not cocky” dream man Michelle is looking for? The former University of Missouri football player and former freestyle rapper (wait, what?) loves spending time outdoors. And SPOILER, he is rumored to be the next “Bachelor.” PLEASE SAY HE BEATBOXES ON THE SHOW….
If you haven’t already, make sure to select your picks in our Bachelorette bracket in partnership with I Hate Green Beans. If you want a brilliant recap of the latest episode, make sure to check out Lincee and Some Guy In Austin on the “I Hate Green Beans” podcast recap episode that’s sure to have you laughing.
Links:
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Why You Should Give A Crap About The MLB Playoffs
Who you should cheer for and why?
Photo: Unsplash
(Podcast length - 4:16 mins)
After a 162-game season (oof), it all comes down to this.
Transcript
1. Should you need a little direction on which team to cheer for, how about selecting by their biggest celebrity fan? Here are the matchups so you can pick accordingly:
AL (American League) Wild Card (Oct. 5): Boston Red Sox (Stephen King) vs. New York Yankees (Billy Crystal)
* Yankees were eliminated Tuesday night by the Red Sox
NL (National League) Wild Card (Oct. 6): Los Angeles Dodgers (Mila Kunis + Ashton Kutcher) vs. St. Louis Cardinals (Jon Hamm)
*Cardinals were eliminated Wednesday night by the Dodgers
AL Division Series (starts Oct. 7): Chicago White Sox (Barack Obama) vs. Houston Astros (Dan Rather)
ALDS (Oct. 7): Tampa Bay Rays (Hulk Hogan) vs. Boston Red Sox (Stephen King)
NLDS (Oct. 8): Atlanta Braves (Ludacris) vs. Milwaukee Brewers (Colin Kaepernick)
NL Division Series (starts Oct. 8): San Francisco Giants (Metallica) vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (Mila Kunis + Ashton Kutcher)
2. A few of these playoff teams have strong traditions to tune into when you watch the game. The Astros have the train that goes back and forth after every home team home run. The Brewers have Bernie Brewer, the beloved mascot of the Milwaukee Brewers, who slides down a giant yellow slide above the outfield after every Brewers' home run. And the karaoke trend that you love goes sporty at a Red Sox game where fans sing "Sweet Caroline" just before the bottom of the eighth inning of every home game. GOOD TIMES NEVER SEEMED SO GOOD
3. It's all about the Benjamins, and not everyone is spending it all to reach the playoffs. The Yankees have the second-highest payroll in baseball and the Rays have the fourth lowest in the league. Despite the over $135 million differential in salaries, the Rays still have the best record in the American League, which earns them home field advantage. SPEND IT ALL
4. If you pick your team to cheer for based on their title drought, the playoffs are kind of a mixed bag. The Dodgers are the defending champions, and the Astros won a few years ago. Then there are the Rays, who haven't won in 23 years or the Brewers, who haven't taken home a championship in 53 years. The Rays are hoping to follow in the footsteps of the city's other professional sports teams that have won titles this year – the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL – National Football League) and Lightning (NHL – National Hockey League). TITLE TOWN?
5. If you want to talk shop with the best of them, here's one for you. MLB changed the composition of the baseball this season to reduce the number of home runs. That change has resulted in a record number of pitchers throwing no-hitters this season. Will that continue into the playoffs? WE SHALL SEE
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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The 5 Best Football Traditions
If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.
Photo: Giphy.com
(Podcast length - 4:30 mins)
If you're going to a game (or simply have friends who are football fans), from the NFL to college, here's what you need to know.
Transcript
LAMBEAU LEAP
The Lambeau Leap, which started as a spontaneous jump into the crowd by former Green Bay Packers (NFL – National Football League) player Leroy Butler in 1993, has turned into a tradition at Lambeau Field, home of the Packers. Minus during COVID, the scoring player jumps up the wall and into the crowd after almost every touchdown. ALL HANDS ON DECK
SMILE AND WAVE
Iowa Hawkeye fans have started a tradition, the Iowa Wave. When the first quarter ends, fans wave to the patients at Iowa's Stead Family Children's Hospital that overlooks the stadium. MOST IMPORTANT PLAY OF THE GAME
12
The Seattle Seahawks (NFL) have long given love to the 12th man (or woman), the fans, who are loud and provide the Seahawks with serious home field advantage. But they're not the only football team to give love to the 12s. At Texas A&M, the 12th man student section stands the entire game in support of their team. Texas A&M trademarked "12th man," and the Seahawks made a deal to pay the university $140,000 to use the limited rights of the phrase for five years. SMART INVESTMENT
TP + TREES
Remember when toilet papering a house was something you did to your worse enemy? Not at Auburn University. After a win, fans toilet paper the oaks on Toomer's Corner on campus. This tradition, which started in 1972, was stopped for three years after an Alabama fan poisoned the trees, but now it's back. No word if poor college students clean the toilet paper up afterward to stock their bathrooms, especially after COVID. LIKELY ONE-PLY
SEISMIC SANDMAN
As you might expect, a bone-chilling tradition that creates seismic activity starts with Metallica. The Virginia Tech football team takes the field to "Enter Sandman," and the noise from the fans registers as seismic activity. The team considered songs from Guns N' Roses and Alan Parsons Project before settling on Metallica. ROCK ON
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Why The Ryder Cup Is The Greatest Rivalry In Sports
No golf nap here.
Photo: Instagram/Ryder Cup USA
(Podcast length - 5:30 mins)
With the Olympics over, you thought you could retire your American flag attire, but not so fast. The ultimate golf rivalry, the Ryder Cup, is upon us. You might think there's nothing angsty about watching golf, but you'd be wrong again. At the Ryder Cup, you can cut the tension, drama and disdain with a knife.
Transcript
1. The Ryder Cup, played every other year, pits the 12 best US golfers against the 12 best golfers in Europe. The contest alternates between both sides of the pond, with this year's tourney taking place in Wisconsin on the shores of Lake Michigan at Whistling Straits. The course design replicates courses in Ireland. WHO HAS THE HOMEFIELD ADVANTAGE THEN?
2. Team Europe beat the US three years ago when the teams last played. (They skipped a year thanks to COVID). The US holds the overall advantage, though, with 26 wins to Europe's 14. The US Team has a significant advantage this year in Wisconsin - the fans. Over 45,000 fans are expected each day, and they're likely to be rowdy and possibly a game changer. SWEET AND INNOCENT
3. Unlike the Olympics, the golfers will not receive any compensation if they win. The teams are playing for the bragging rights and the exposure to a much larger audience. If the US. wins, the team will receive $200,000. The players then decide on the charities that will receive half of the money. The PGA (Professional Golfers Association) of America decides where the other half goes. And what happens if there's a tie when it's all said and done? The team holding the Ryder Cup retains it (Europe). PLAYING FOR PRIDE (AND NOT A TIE)
4. Keep an eye on Americans Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka. The two have had a long-standing beef with each other, done in the most golf etiquette way possible. The two rivals haven't come to blows, but there has been plenty of public eye-rolling, mean tweeting and overall complaining about each other. Either way, the two will have to keep it together as they play for the same team in this tournament. (The PGA's $40M social media incentive that was implemented last season could have something to do with the feud as well). FOR A GREATER CAUSE
5. Picking the teams is a mix between your grade school gym class and actual rankings. The U.S. team, led by Steve Stricker, will be made up of the top six players in the points rankings and six players of the captain's choosing. The European captain, Padraig Harrington, doesn't get as much flexibility. His team will consist of the first four players from the European Points List, the leading five players from the World Points List, and three captain's choices. PICK ME!
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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The Most Athletic Celebrities (Some Who You'd Never Expect)
Expect the unexpected.
(Podcast length - 5 mins)
You don't think celebs are simply good looks and character acting? Some of them have skills that far exceed our expectations (and abilities) when it comes to athleticism.
Transcript
JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE
Justin Timberlake is known for his dance moves, but he’s also an avid golfer. He started playing when he was 12, and rumor has it, he has a 6 handicap. (The lower, the better). Timberlake is also a partial owner of the Memphis Grizzlies (NBA – National Basketball Association) and has a stake in the Music City Grand Prix ownership group. LIKE I LOVE YOU
GEENA DAVIS
She may have played the sensitive catcher in “A League Of Their Own,” but maybe Geena Davis should’ve tried out for the role of Katniss? The six-foot-tall Academy Award-winning actress nearly qualified for the Olympics in archery. After being inspired by the 1996 Summer Olympics, she began practicing five hours a day, six days a week. After two years, she came in 24 out of 300 competitors in an Olympic qualifier. DANG GEENA
ADAM SANDLER
Adam Sandler is a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court. While he’s best known for playing a golfer in “Happy Gilmore,” it’s his basketball skills that have some NBA players talking. The 55-year-old actor has been known to delight in a pickup basketball game or two when filming. IT’S ALL IN THE HIPS
MARIA MENOUNOS
A-list celebrities and athletes alike line up to play in the Super Bowl’s “Madden Bowl,” a knock-out tournament that pits celebs against each other in a game of Madden NFL. Well, the former Access Hollywood host Maria Menounos showed them all who was boss. In 2011, she became the first woman ever to win the championship title for the Madden Bowl. TAKE IT TO THE HOUSE
JUSTIN BIEBER
We all know Justin Bieber is Canadian, and just because he’s Canadian doesn’t mean he’s great at hockey, except when he is. In 2012, he was offered an ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) contract with Bakersfield for his great puck handling skills. You might remember back in early 2020 when All-Star NHL (National Hockey League) goalie Jordan Binnington challenged Bieber to a shootout after seeing a video on the pop star’s Instagram. Bieber has also been known to pick up a game or two with a few of his NHL friends. NEVER SAY NEVER
Honorable mentions go out to Steve Carrell (hockey), Terry Crews (football) and Nelly (softball and football).
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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Top 5 Storylines To Follow For The 2021 NFL Season
The country’s most popular sport kicks off this week.
(Podcast length - 5:30 mins)
While the men of the NFL (National Football League) are back this week, the women are the big discussion point of this season. (Okay, and you too, COVID).
Transcript
1. The NFL will have a record 12 women coaches this season, and six are women of color. Included in the 12 are Maral Javadifar and Lori Locust, who were the first women to win Super Bowl as coaches with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The growth of women in the NFL is credited to a few programs that include the "Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship" and the league's annual Women's Careers in Football Forum. The two aim to increase the number of full-time NFL minority coaches. A SEAT AT THE TABLE
2. COVID protocols for unvaccinated and vaccinated players are very different this season. So different that some coaches have had to backtrack on comments that insinuated that they kept vaccinated players over those who were not. If vaccinated players test positive, they can return to the team as soon as 48 hours after testing positive (provided they have two negative tests 24 hours apart). Unvaccinated players must isolate for a minimum of 10 days, even if they're asymptomatic. WHY IS THIS NOT PART OF OUR FANTASY FOOTBALL CONVERSATION?
3. Last year was the first season in 14 seasons that the NFL did not play a game in London. And while it might be tough for you to get to London this fall, the city will be hosting two NFL games in October. The Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets will play on Sunday, October 10, and the Jacksonville Jaguars will take on the Miami Dolphins the following weekend, on October 17. The teams will play at the home of Tottenham Hotspur (soccer). FINGERS CROSSED IT'LL HAPPEN
4. Despite concerns about the toll a season takes on a player's body, money talks. During the off-season, team owners voted to expand the regular season from 16 to 17 games starting this season. This season there will also be a change with how players get paid. Players will receive at least 48% of all league revenue. That figure could increase depending on the upcoming TV negotiations. SHOW ME THE MONEY
5. If you find the idea of the broadcast team talking stats and not strategy or providing interesting insights to the game, now you're in luck. Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks and brothers Peyton and Eli Manning will provide a simulcast of Monday Night Football. Basically, it'll be the two of them sitting around and watching the game. And if you've ever followed them on social media or even Peyton's SNL hosting gig, they're pretty funny. It's two dudes, a football game and a microphone. PASS THE POPCORN
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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The 5 Things You Need To Know About College Football Season
Everyone is talking about it, we have you covered so you can too.
(Podcast length - 5:03 mins)
Few things bring together our country like the Olympics and now college football season. To some, we are rolling into the most wonderful time of the year. Some might argue it’s like the holidays with the get-togethers, sometimes awkward small talk and tailgates with lots of food.
Transcript
1. COVID
COVID is the one to watch. Entire teams like Ole Miss, Boston College and Arizona are fully vaccinated, but the COVID protocols are different between conferences and schools. Most schools will welcome back stadiums at full capacity, tailgates and other gameday traditions but will require fans to show proof of vaccination or proof of a negative test.
All of the Power 5 conferences (SEC, The Big Ten, ACC, PAC-12 and Big 12) have declared that if one team can't play a game because of COVID-19, they will forfeit the game, and it will not be rescheduled. In all the conferences besides the SEC, it will be declared a no-contest if both teams can't play because of COVID-19. In the SEC, it will go down as a loss. MASK UP
2. Name, Image, Likeness
The Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) era begins after compensation for NIL for all college athletes became a reality this summer. Alabama quarterback Bryce Young has never played a game for Alabama but is making seven figures in NIL endorsements. How will that impact players' future in the NFL? Time will tell but, in the NBA Draft, 88 early entry candidates (players who still have eligibility) withdrew from the 2021 draft after the announcement of NIL. CASH IS KING
3. Super Seniors
"Super seniors" will be a buzzword, and no, we're not talking about Arnold Schwarzenegger or Jane Fonda. Due to COVID, the NCAA awarded players with an extra year of eligibility, some of who will be in their fifth or even sixth football season. AARP IS CALLING
4. Tailgates
You can't talk football without talking about tailgating. The tradition was essentially put on hold during the 2020 season so expect this year's parking lot parties to be full-on. Unsurprisingly, the average tailgater is a male between 25-44 years old who spends over $500 a year on tailgating food by attending or hosting 6-10 parties a season. Even more intriguing, according to tailgating.com, they also use separate coolers for their food and beverages. CLASSY
Make sure to check out our favorite college football traditions for something to chat about at your tailgate.
5. Who to watch
You might be tired of hearing these names, but Alabama, who won it all last year, tops the list even after losing a few star players to the NFL. Keep an eye out on THE Ohio State (Ohio State is very passionate about the 'THE') and always Clemson. Then there's Oklahoma, which is the only team at the top of the list without a CFP national title to their name. (The NCAA implemented the current CFP structure in 2014). GO TEAM!
A little something extra
All eyes are on Louisiana with the aftermath of Hurricane Ida. Exactly 16 years after Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana, Ida is forcing residents to evacuate, causing massive flooding and leaving millions without power. Tulane moved their home opener against Oklahoma due to storm damage. The game will now be played in OU's home stadium in Norman, Oklahoma, with all of the ticket proceeds going to Tulane. MI CASA ES SU CASA
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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The Games Return - The 5 Things You Need To Know To Cheer On The US Paralympic Team
Around 4,400 athletes from 162 national Paralympic committees will compete in 539 medal events across 22 sports.
Photo: Instagram/Team USA
(Podcast length - 5:03 mins)
We’re not done with Tokyo as the Paralympic Games begin today. In case you’re wondering, they’re called the Paralympics. The name is derived from the Greek preposition “para” (beside or alongside) and the word “Olympic.” The Paralympic Games exist side-by-side with the Olympic Games. These athletes have amazing stories to share so here’s a little bit more about what you can expect as you tune in over the next two weeks.
Transcript
1. The Summer Paralympics debuted in 1960 in Rome. Tokyo is the first city to host the Paralympic Games twice. (The games take place in the same location as the Summer Olympics). For the first time, US Paralympic athletes will receive the same medal bonus as their Olympian counterparts. Now Paralympians earn $37,500 for a gold medal, $22,500 for silver and $15,000 for bronze, increasing their payout by as much as 400 percent. NOW WE'RE TALKING
2. Around 4,400 athletes from 162 national Paralympic committees will compete in 539 medal events across 22 sports. The team from Afghanistan will not be in attendance after their flights were cancelled due to the unrest in their country. The country's flag still flew in the Opening Ceremonies as an "an act of solidarity." BETTER TOGETHER
3. Ten different impairments determine if an athlete is eligible to compete in the Paralympics: impaired muscle power, impaired passive range of movement, limb deficiency, leg length difference, short stature, muscle tension, uncoordinated movement, involuntary movements, vision impairment and intellectual impairment. You might see track and field stars like David Brown from the US, run alongside a guide while wearing an eye mask. The mask is to ensure that none have a visual advantage, like light perception. SO DETERMINED
4. Fans will not be allowed at the games due to COVID protocols, except for Tokyo's finest. More than 130,000 school children will be allowed to attend various events, even though many are too young to be vaccinated. According to the Associated Press, organizers say that it's good for the children to see athletes with disabilities competing at the highest level. It "could change attitudes in a relatively conservative society like Japan." RAISE 'EM UP
5. There are so many athletes to highlight, and we'll do so in our Instagram stories throughout the games, which end Sept. 5. A few to watch for are swimmer Jessica Long, who trains with Michael Phelps. She's the second most decorated Paralympian in US history and starred in her own Super Bowl commercial. Then there's sprinter Hunter Woodhall. You might know him from TikTok or from cheering on his long jumper girlfriend, Tara Davis, who competed in the Summer Olympics. SO MANY GREAT STORIES, SO LITTLE TIME
PS: If you want to know more, the Paralympics' official Instagram account has posted some awesome educational posts alongside the coverage of the games. It's an excellent account to follow for all of the action and to learn a little bit along the way.
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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5 Of America’s Best Cities (That Also Happen To Have Great Sports Teams)
Who isn't looking for a reason to get away?
Photo: Instagram/therealcityofdenver
(Podcast length - 6:10 mins)
We’ve taken out the obvious choice for sports cities in Los Angeles, New York, Boston and Chicago and given you a few new places to add to your must-see travel list.
Transcript
DENVER
With over 300 days of sunshine, Denver is an obvious choice. Sure they have the Denver Broncos (NFL – National Football League), Denver Nuggets (NBA – National Basketball Association), Colorado Avalanche (NHL – National Hockey League) and Colorado Rockies (MLB – Major League Baseball) but did you know they have over 150 breweries in the metro area? You can take in a concert at the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre if you’re not into sports or venture into the mountains for some hiking, skiing or our favorite, après-ski. ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH
SEATTLE
If the Pike’s Place Market area, the original Starbucks or taking in the views from the top of the Space Needle isn’t enough to drive you to check out Seattle, how about a little sports action? Seattle is the home to the newest NHL team, the Seattle Kraken, that will begin their inaugural season this fall. If hockey isn’t your thing, they have the Seattle Seahawks (NFL), Storm (WNBA - Women's National Basketball Association), Sounders (MLS – Major League Soccer), OL Reign (NWSL – National Women’s Soccer League) and the Mariners (MLB). The Mariners have the longest playoff drought in baseball, so maybe you can bring them some good luck (or at least enjoy the outdoors with a cold beer and some popcorn). HEY BATTER BATTER
NASHVILLE
If Nashville is on your travel list, you’re not the only one. The music city ranks high on the list of most-desired domestic destinations in 2021. If you like football, food and music – you’re in luck. You can catch a Tennessee Titans (NFL) game and then wander over to the Country Music Hall of Fame or to Lower Broadway to take in some of the best live music you’ve ever heard. The city is booming, with over 22 new restaurants opening thus far in 2021, which will be great to grab a bite before a Nashville Predators (NHL) or Nashville SC (MLS) game. VOLUNTEER TO VISIT
LAS VEGAS
The newest blossoming sports city also happens to be the entertainment capital of the world. So if you’re not into catching a Vegas Golden Knights (NHL) or Aces (WNBA) game or checking out the Las Vegas Raiders (NFL) in their brand new stadium, there are plenty of options of things to do. While we all know the Las Vegas Strip is what keeps people coming back to Vegas, did you know that there’s excellent hiking at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and a world-class Mob Museum with a speakeasy in the basement? Oh, and they have 280 non-stop passenger flights scheduled to 152 destinations in nine countries, so it’s easy to get there. SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
TAMPA BAY
While you may think of the beaches, Tampa Bay has cemented its status as an elite sports city over the past few years. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, led by Tom Brady, won the Super Bowl (NFL) in 2021. Not to be outdone, the Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) won back-to-back Stanley Cup Championships. The Rays (MLB) were World Series runners-up in 2020, and the Toronto Raptors (NBA) called Tampa home during COVID because they were prohibited from traveling in and out of Canada. A PLACE TO CALL HOME
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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The Tokyo Olympics - A Success Or A Fail? You Be The Judge.
COVID was a non-starter, they were over budget by 400% and then there are Snoop Dogg and Kevin Hart.
Photo: Instagram/Olympics
(Podcast length - 5:30 mins)
On all accounts, the Tokyo Summer Olympics have gone off without incident, but that doesn't necessarily mean one would consider them a success. We cover the good, the bad and the ugly of this year's Summer Olympics.
Transcript
GOOD
You can't talk about this Olympics without talking about COVID. The pandemic delayed the games a year, and while there were fears of a total outbreak, it seems like the precautions worked. A few high-profile athletes like John Rahm (golf) and Coco Gauff (tennis) tested positive, but overall, COVID was a non-event. WHO WOULD'VE THOUGHT?
Americans Caeleb Dressel and Katie Ledecky continued to dominate in the pool. He won five gold medals, and she made history, winning her sixth individual gold. There is no word on Dressel's future, but Ledecky has already promised that she'll be back for 2024 in Paris. LIKE A FISH
Snoop Dogg and Kevin Hart's commentary on the Olympics was the unsung hero of the Games. They've covered everything from Tonga's shirtless flag bearer to Tom Daley's gold medal-winning synchronized dive. Although our favorite moment has to be their take on the dressage routine by Mopsie, the "rave horse." CAST THAT PONY IN A MUSIC VIDEO
BAD (TURNED POSITIVE)
Being a good sport is in the DNA of the Olympics, and we have to look no further than the track and field competition. First, Isaiah Jewett (USA) and Mijel Amous (Botswana) collided during the 800-meter race, falling. The two picked each other up and finished the race together. IF YOU CAN'T BEAT 'EM, JOIN 'EM
In the high jump, after tying Mutaz Essa Barshim (Qatar) and Gianmarco Tamberi (Italy), were offered a chance to have a jump off to determine a gold medal winner or share the gold. The two agreed to share the gold. The exclamation mark was Tamberi leaping into Barshim's arms to celebrate their co-victory. NICE GUYS TIE FOR GOLD
It seemed like a death sentence for US Women's Gymnastics (and NBC's ratings) when Simone Biles dropped out of the team all-around and subsequent events. But not so fast. With Biles out, her teammates Suni Lee (gold – all-around), Jade Carey (gold – floor) and MyKayla Skinner (silver – vault) all medaled in individual events. Every member of the US Gymnastics team went home with a medal, including Biles, who earned a silver (team all-around) and bronze (beam). STEPPING UP
UGLY
The biggest gut-punch was to the city of Tokyo. It’s estimated that the city spent around $35 billion to put on the Olympics - a far cry from the initial $7.3 billion budget. With the games being delayed a year and no Olympic tourists, it’ll be tough for them to recoup their costs. According to a University of Oxford study, each Olympic Games since 1960 has overrun its budget by 172 percent on average. This Olympics is over by 400 percent. OUCH
It may all work itself out by the end, but the overall TV ratings have been down for the Olympics. Some cite the time difference, confusion on where to catch the coverage and prominent name athletes exiting competition early. The ratings, which are down 42% from Rio 2016, may cause NBC to make right with some advertisers. They sold more than $1.25 billion in commercials and are paying $1.1 billion for broadcast rights. (Keep in mind that doesn't include production costs, salaries, etc). AS LONG AS IT'S IN THE GREEN
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Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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What Olympic Winners Do With Their Medals
To stash or to sell?
Photo: Instagram/Olympics
(Podcast length - 4:15 mins)
What would you do with your most prized possession? You’ll never guess.
Transcript
1. Team USA Women’s Soccer player Christie Rampone keeps her medals in her pots and pans. Her rationale? Who’s going to look there? THEY WILL NOW
2. Honorable mentions go to a school locker (Bob Suter), their agent's house (Shaun White), in the nightstand (Lindsey Vonn) and the nail polish drawer (Caitlyn Jenner). Then there's the always popular sock drawer, where a slew of Olympic athletes store their medals, including Apolo Ohno, Natalie Coughlin, Mary Lou Retton and Sue Bird. PRIZED POSSESSION
3. Sprinter Carl Lewis put his 1987 medal in his father’s casket at his funeral. He told his mom that he was going to go back and get another one. And he did. MAN OF HIS WORD
4. Ukrainian boxer Wladimir Klitschko sold his medal from the 1996 Olympics for a reported $1 million, with the proceeds going to a children's charity he started with his brother. Other athletes have had no choice but to sell their medals to pay their bills. "Miracle On Ice" hockey player Mark Wells sold his medal to pay for back surgery. DO WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO
5. USA men’s basketball won a disappointing bronze medal at the 2004 Olympic games in Atlanta. Unhappy with the teams’ performance, Carmelo Anthony gave his bronze medal to a family member who auctioned it off for $14,000. ONE MAN’S TRASH IS ANOTHER’S TREASURE
Did you know? This year's Olympic medals are made of recycled metals from small electronic devices like mobile phones. But the medal isn't the only prize. American medal winners receive a bonus for their win. The scale is $37,000 for gold, $22,500 for silver and $15,000 for bronze. Thanks to the "Victory Tax," US Olympians earning less than $1 million/year won't have to pay tax on this prize money.
Links:
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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U-S-A! Five Members Of The U.S. Olympic Team To Keep An Eye On
Some you know, some you likely don’t. Regardless, we’re donning our red, white and blue to cheer them on.
Photo: Instagram/Quanesha Burks
(Podcast length - 4:50 mins)
Each athlete at the Olympic games comes with a story of perseverance, determination and, in many cases, heartbreak. While we would love to highlight each of the more than 620 athletes competing on Team U.S.A., here are a few that we would like to celebrate.
Transcript
Quanesha Burks is from a town of 14,000 people but had her sights set on college. When Burks wasn't training during high school, she worked at McDonald's to help her grandmother pay off her car insurance. Because of her hard work ethic and athletic ability, Burks received a scholarship to college, and while it was a bit of a broken road to get here, she is now a full-time professional long jumper. What did she eat to celebrate making the U.S. Olympic team? A McDonald's medium fries with no salt and a side of sweet and sour sauce. SET THE BAR HIGH
The Bruce Tramps can unite over something more than his summer concert series. Jessica, the daughter of the boss himself, Bruce Springsteen, will compete on the U.S. Olympic Equestrian team as part of the jumping squad. Springsteen began riding at the age of four and is now ranked third on the U.S. rider list. Tokyo will be her first Olympic appearance. (For the record, Springsteen fans are called Bruce Tramps as in "tramps like us.") BORN TO RUN
There are so many stellar women to watch, from Sue Bird (basketball) to Simone Biles (gymnastics) to Katie Ledecky (swimming). We couldn't be more excited to see these women and those of the U.S.W.N.T. (soccer) dominate in their sport while cheering each other along. Did you know that women have won more than 50% of Team U.S.A.'s medals at the last two Summer Olympics? Biles said, "I've been here for so long, so to be a mentor for them has meant everything to me, and to share these accomplishments and these goals." BETTER TOGETHER
Filling the giant flippers of Michael Phelps is Caeleb Dressel. Dressel became a household name in Rio, where he won two medals in the swimming relays. As the experienced veteran on the men's team, the swim team co-captain has a chance to become the fourth swimmer in history to win seven medals in a single Olympic Games. Dressel stayed sane during his time off in 2020 by hiking the Appalachian Trail with his wife. As he revealed on his podcast "The Ben and Caeleb Show," the trail taught him more about life than the Olympics. DEEP DIVE
Allyson Felix, the most decorated athlete in the world, teamed up with Athleta to help moms fund childcare when they're competing. Except for nursing infants, athlete's children cannot attend the games. Felix and Athleta gave out six- $10,000 grants to female Olympians to help with childcare while they're in Tokyo. It wasn't until late June that Tokyo Organizers decided to let athlete moms who are nursing bring their child to Tokyo after athletes from all over the world said not being able to do so was forcing them to choose between being a mother and an athlete. WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN
Links:
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.